National Record Store Day
Celebrate the culture of independent record stores on National Record Store Day! This special day honors the unique experience of browsing physical music, discovering new artists, and supporting local record shops. Join music lovers worldwide in celebrating vinyl records and the communities they create.
About National Record Store Day
Celebrate the culture of independent record stores on National Record Store Day! This special day honors the unique experience of browsing physical music, discovering new artists, and supporting local record shops. Join music lovers worldwide in celebrating vinyl records and the communities they create.
History & origins
National Record Store Day grew out of a 2007 gathering of independent record store owners and employees in the United States, created to celebrate and promote the culture of locally owned music shops. The first Record Store Day took place on April 19, 2008, and it has since spread to participating stores in many countries. Its exact origin story is tied to indie retailers rather than a single founder, so the observance is best understood as a collaborative grassroots event rather than a formal holiday.
Why it matters
National Record Store Day supports independent businesses that help sustain local music scenes, from vinyl sales to in-store performances and artist appearances. It also keeps physical music culture visible at a time when streaming dominates, giving listeners a reason to discover new releases, connect with store staff, and support local jobs.
How to celebrate
Visit your local independent record store. Browse vinyl records and discover new music. Purchase albums from your favorite artists. Attend Record Store Day special events and exclusive releases. Support local record stores by buying from them. Share your record store finds on social media.
Facts
- Record Store Day was established in 2007 to celebrate independent record stores
- Vinyl record sales have been growing steadily since 2006
- Many record stores host live performances and meet-and-greets
- Record Store Day features exclusive releases available only at participating stores
- Independent record stores are cultural hubs for music communities
Upcoming dates
- Sunday, April 19, 2026
- Monday, April 19, 2027
- Wednesday, April 19, 2028
- Thursday, April 19, 2029
- Friday, April 19, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Record Store Day in 2026?
National Record Store Day in 2026 is on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
What is National Record Store Day?
National Record Store Day is a celebration of independent record stores and vinyl culture. It highlights browsing physical music, discovering artists, and supporting local shops.
Who started National Record Store Day?
It was started by a group of independent record store owners and employees in the United States in 2007. The observance began as a collaborative grassroots idea rather than a single-person creation.
How do you celebrate National Record Store Day?
Visit an independent record store, buy vinyl or other music, and look for special in-store events or exclusive releases. Sharing favorite finds and supporting local shops are also common ways to take part.
Is National Record Store Day an official holiday?
No, National Record Store Day is an informal observance, not a federal holiday. It is a music retail celebration centered on independent stores and fans.
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